Alumni Helping Alumni

This story begins in 1987, when gas was pushing $1 a gallon and the world population approached five billion. It was at this time that Don McBurney ′68 helped a new Geneva graduate, Scott Madeira, secure a job interview. But Don didn′t realize the long-reaching impact this would have.

Fast forward to the present. Now, gas is pushing $4 a gallon, the world population is over seven billion and Scott is employed by Procirca, a leading Pittsburgh-based provider of cardiovascular services for more than 25 years. And Scott has continued the cycle Don began by finding ways to use his position to assist others in the Geneva community.Scott recently approached biology professor Dr. David Essig about connecting Geneva graduates to his employer because he understands first-hand the benefits of a rigorous, Christ-centered education. During their conversation, Briana Gamret ′12 stopped by to see Dr. Essig. Now, Briana is also employed by Procirca.

How did this happen?

Scott and Briana met again after their initial introduction, and he encouraged her to apply for a position as a technician. He even gave her some advice about her resume. “After that,” says Briana, “I was on my own. I had to rely on my experiences and knowledge gained at Geneva to help me through the interview process.”

That preparation paid off. Scott says he “laid low” at that point, but she passed one interview, and then performed well in a second interview with Scott present. In Scott′s words, his co-workers gave Briana “a thumbs-up.”

Scott reflects, “It was a case of God putting people in the right place at the right time.”

“The biopsychology course work and my experiences with professors really helped to prepare me for this position and the interviewing process,” adds Briana. “I am very grateful to Geneva for preparing me in this way, and I am grateful for the connections that the college has provided me. I never would have known of my eligibility to apply for this position without my Geneva connection with Scott Madeira.”

Geneva is a community, and we excel at community when we help each other. Like the way that Don helped Scott and, in turn, Scott helped Briana. Right now, thousands of alumni are similarly situated to make a big impact through a simple act of kindness. And we encourage you to consider, “How might I help other Geneva grads?”

LAWSUIT UPDATEOn February 21, 2012, Geneva College filed a lawsuit against the federal government′s mandate that religious employers provide insurance coverage for abortion-inducing drugs to employees and students, regardless of religious or moral objections.Geneva President Dr. Ken Smith reports that the two sides are filing motions and responses with the court. Please continue to pray about the lawsuit, and we will keep you updated on developments.